Ashes 2017/18

Third Test - day two (close)

Australia 203-3 v England 403

CRAIG Overton removed both Australian openers before leaving the field with a rib injury of the third Ashes Test in Perth.

The day started well for England before a dramatic collapse, which saw the tourists slide from 368-4 to 403 all out.

Jonny Bairstow was able to complete his century, but fell amid a clatter of wickets as Overton (2) was unable to match his sterling effort with the bat in Adelaide.

The Somerset man made an instant impact with the ball, however, claiming the vital scalp of David Warner as the hard-hitting opener edged behind to depart for 22.

Cameron Bancroft was next to fall, with the on-field decision of not out overturned on review after the batsman was struck on the pad by one which nipped back.

At that stage Overton had 2-7 from 3.2 overs and he continued to threaten during a lengthy spell in the afternoon session, hitting Steve Smith on the chin with the final ball before tea.

Injury prevented the seamer from adding to his tally as, in just his second over of the evening session, Overton was visibly struggling - clutching his chest/rib area - and left the field at the end of the over. 

Bridgwater Mercury:

STRUGGLING: Craig Overton (right) with the England physio (Pic: Jason O'Brien/PA Wire)

He had, of course, been struck on the ribs while batting in the second innings in Adelaide and reports have suggested he has taken painkillers to play in this Test.

The 23-year-old returned to field for the closing stages of the second day, which ended with Australia 203-3 and Smith unbeaten on 92.

At the close of play, BBC's Test Match Special reported that Overton picked up a sore rib attempting a caught and bowled against Usman Khawaja, and they are "not sure yet" whether he will go for a scan.